How to Design Your Own DIY Mini Chandelier
Beau WynjaWhether you want something small to hang over a tiny breakfast nook or you’re considering adding a little interest to the hallway at the entrance of your home, a mini chandelier is the perfect choice! There’s something glamorous and exciting about chandeliers, but they may not always fit into your space. Minimize this sophisticated style so that you can put it anywhere in your home!
If you’re wondering where to start when designing a DIY mini chandelier pendant light fixture, Color Cord Company can help. Follow our guide for an overview of the process straight from the experts.
- Decide On A Style
Is your home more sleek and minimalist? Or does it have an industrial vibe? Maybe it’s contemporary and modern? Whatever your current aesthetic, your mini chandelier design should definitely match the rest of the decor. Look at everything from the colors and accent hues to the textures and fabrics to decide what will work best in your design. Think about some of the following:
- Metal Color & Finish
- Bulb Types
- Shade Materials
- Cord Colors
- Mounting Style
- Location, Location, Location
Another important factor in designing your mini chandelier pendant is the location. If it’s going in the bathroom, you need to consider how humidity will affect the different components. If your mini chandelier is going in the kitchen, you need to think about how this fixture fulfills the space’s ambient, accent, and task lighting requirements. The location you choose is critical for more than just looks; it’s important to consider the layering of your different fixtures to ensure that your new piece is functional and practical.
- Measure it Out
Measuring the size of your space is probably the most essential part of any project. You need to know how wide and tall your mini chandelier can be. You don’t want your chandelier to be too large and overpower the space, but you also don’t want it to be too small and get lost in the room. You’ll also need to know how high your ceiling is so you can decide between flush mounting or plug-in pendant lighting. If you choose to go the pendant route, it’s good to check how much extra cord to purchase to ensure your chandelier is hanging at the perfect height.
- How Many Bulbs?
Once you know what size you want your mini chandelier to be, you can start thinking about how many arms and bulbs it should have. Will you have a plant-inspired centerpiece that incorporates nature? Are you planning to have more of a branching candelabra look that mimics the style of the Victorian chandelier with a modern twist? The size of your space may dictate how far your chandelier can branch out. Since most mini chandelier pendants measure from 6”-12” in diameter, and you’re probably limited by your space, your chandelier may only have two branches! You might be able to squeeze in as many as five or six before your design gets a little too busy. You could also opt for a single bulb, all-in-one design that makes a subtle and elegant statement.
- Exposed or Shaded?
As your ideas evolve and your mini chandelier starts to come together, you might change your mind about the state of your bulbs. Maybe you thought that exposed bulbs were best, but now your chandelier is looking a little too bare. The perfect solution could be a geometric bulb cage that highlights the light bulb and dresses it up a bit more. As you’re playing with different bulb coverings, don’t forget to explore all the different types of lamp shade materials! Color Cord Company has everything from fabric and paper to glass and metal — any of which could be the perfect complement to your chandelier design.
- Essential Tools
Your design is complete, and you’ve added all the different pieces to your cart, but wait! There’s more! You can’t forget the essential tools you’ll need for installing your mini chandelier at home. In addition to the wiring tips and instructions on our blog, you should also make sure you have sockets and covers, tubing and fittings, and electrical components.
If you’re ever in doubt about installation, discuss your design and plans with a professional electrician. They can help you figure out the more difficult aspects of DIY design, including weight caps, stripping wires, grounding, and more.
Get Started Today!
Color Cord Company wants you to feel inspired by our blogs, but if you think DIY is a little out of your league, that’s OK! We offer plenty of ready-made fixtures for you to decorate your home. You can even collaborate with us on a personalized design to create a custom fixture. Access everything you need to perfect your home lighting at Color Cord Company today.
